QUINAPRIL (Accupril?) is an antihypertensive such as blood pressure lowering agent known as an ACE inhibitor. Quinapril controls high blood pressure such s hypertension by relaxing blood vessels. Because high blood pressure levels can damage your kidneys, and may also lead to a stroke or heart failure. It also helps to treat patients with heart failure.



Accupril Dosage

The usual starting dose is 10 or 20 milligrams taken once a day. If you have any problems with your kidneys or if you are also taking a diuretic, then your starting dose may be lower.

For adults over age 65, then the usual starting dose is 10 milligrams. Depending on how your blood pressure responds, your doctor may also increase your dose up to a total of 80 milligrams a day taken once a day or divided into two doses.

Uses of Accupril

*Accupril is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure.

*It is also used to treat other conditions those are listed in the medication guide.

Side Effects of Accupril

Quinapril may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

* dizziness

* excessive tiredness

* cough

* upset stomach

* vomiting

Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:

* swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs

* hoarseness

* difficulty breathing or swallowing

* yellowing of the skin or eyes

* fever, sore throat, chills, and other signs of infection

* chest pain

* lightheadedness

* fainting

Warnings and precautions before taking Accupril

*If you develop swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or of your arms and legs, or have difficulty swallowing or breathing, then you should contact your doctor immediately.

*You should also inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking Accupril before undergoing surgery or anesthesia.

*If you develop a sore throat, fever, or any other sign of infection, then you should contact your doctor immediately. Because it could indicate a more serious illness.

*You should tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to quinapril, benazepril (Lotensin), captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), fosinopril (Monopril), or any other medications.

*Do not take quinapril if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking quinapril, call your doctor immediately. Quinapril may harm the fetus.

Drug Interaction:-

If Accupril is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Accupril with the following:

*Diuretics such as Lasix

*Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)

*Magnesium

*Potassium-sparing diuretics such as Aldactone, Dyazide, and Moduretic

*Potassium supplements such as Slow-K and K-Dur

*Salt substitutes containing potassium

*Tetracycline (Sumycin)

Overdose

After taken accupril if you feel that overdose is suspected, then you should contact with your doctor immediately. Because it may lead to another serious effect. Symptoms of a Accupril overdose may include:

*Feeling extremely dizzy or light-headed

*Fainting

*Vomiting